New European guidance confirms smartphones and tablets can be safely used
during take-off and landing

Passengers on aeroplanes leaving Britain are likely to be able to use smartphones and tablets from the start to the end of their flight shortly, after the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) updated its guidelines.

According to new guidance published today, those taking a flight would be able to use their personal electronic device (PED) – which includes tablets, smartphones, and e-readers – as long as the device is kept in flight mode.

Currently, passengers are required to switch off all electronic devices for take-off and landing.

The change in use will not happen immediately, with EASA explaining that “it will be [up] to the discretion of each airline to use this guidance and change its policy.” Airlines would need to apply for a change in their procedures to the national regulator, which is the CAA in Britain.